Abstract: 5　1600m² plots were established in Fujian Sanming Nature Reserve of Castanopsis kawakamii for the obtaining of sampling data by tally in the contiguous quadrats. Analysis of the structure and spatial patterns of Castanopsis kawakamii population indicates that the population structure of Castanopsis kawakamii has abundant seedlings, 3523 stems/hm², and big trees, 145 stems/hm², but relatively few young trees, 73 stems/hm², which is similar to that of 1981, and that the fragmentation of population structure is easily found in certain successional communities. Generally speaking, the Castanopsis kawakamii forest has not reached a climatic climax while Castanopsis kawakamii population exhibits recession. Spatial patterns of population varies with different developmental stage, with an overall trend from aggregated to random distribution, for example, K varies averagely from 1.643 to -5.990. Aggregated pattern is prevalent at different successional stages of communities. Different size of blocks has been found to have an effect on the spatial patterns. As for the endangerment of Castanopsis kawakamii, fragmentation of habitats, barries to population regeneration, decreased population nummber due to human disturbance and unstable community environment due to ecotonal locality are the main causes. Conservational strategies should be focussed on ex situ conservation as well as in situ conservation, reducing human disturbance and enhancing inter-population genetic exchange.

Key words: Castanopsis kawakamii, Population structure, Spatial pattern, Dynamics